It has become a tradition for Kenyans to use Madaraka Day not only to celebrate the country’s attainment of self-rule but also to reflect on the state of the nation and the challenges affecting their daily lives.
As the country marks the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations today in Wajir County, the residents of Tinderet Sub-County say the occasion should be a moment of honest reflection on the state of affairs across all the sectors of the economy.
They lamented that corruption, declining standards in education and healthcare, and the rising cost of living continue to be burdensome to ordinary citizens.
The residents expressed mixed feelings about the national celebrations, saying that while the country’s democratic space has expanded since independence, many of the aspirations of self-rule remain unfulfilled.
Joseph Kiprotich, a tea farmer from Songhor, said corruption has become one of the greatest obstacles to development.
“Every year leaders speak about development, but corruption continues to deny wananchi quality services. Funds meant for roads, hospitals, and schools often disappear before they reach the intended projects. Until corruption is dealt with firmly, many Kenyans will continue suffering despite the country’s envisioned progress,” he said.
Mary Chepkemoi, a parent from the Songhor area, lamented the declining quality of education.
“Our children are learning under difficult circumstances. Schools face shortages of teachers and learning materials, while many parents struggle to pay school fees. Education was once regarded as the great equalizer, but many families now fear they may not afford quality education for their children,” she observed.
Peter Kibet, a youth leader, said unemployment among young people remains a major concern.
“Many young people have completed college and university studies but remain jobless. We celebrate self-rule today, but true empowerment will come when our youth can secure decent jobs and earn a dignified living,” he noted.
Beatrice Jelagat, a community health promoter, expressed concern over the state of healthcare services.
“Healthcare facilities continue to face shortages of medicines, equipment, and personnel. Patients are often forced to travel long distances or spend huge amounts of money seeking treatment. Access to quality healthcare should not be a privilege but a right for every Kenyan,” she said.
Samuel Kirwa, a businessman at Maraba market, pointed to the economic hardships facing many households.
“The cost of food, fuel, and other basic commodities has continued to rise. Small businesses are struggling, and many families can barely make ends meet. The government should prioritize policies that stimulate economic growth and create opportunities for ordinary citizens,” he said.
The residents called on leaders at all levels to embrace integrity, accountability, and servant leadership as a way of addressing the country’s challenges.
They argued that improving public service delivery, investing in education and healthcare, supporting agriculture, and creating employment opportunities would help realize the dreams that inspired the struggle for self-rule.
By Sammy Mwibanda
